Utilization of Papaya Stem Fibers in Enhancing the Mechanical Properties of Brick Tiles

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

One of the most used materials in our country are blocks or bricks. They are used to build houses, buildings, and other stuff. There is a clamor for long-lasting bricks so that houses will not collapse easily in case of earthquakes. This study sought to investigate the use of papaya stem fibers as an aggregate material for brick-making.

METHODS

The materials needed to make bricks were obtained. Stems of papaya were chopped, macerated, and dried to obtain their fiber content. Two setups were prepared and labeled as set up A and set up B, respectively. Setup A consists of bricks without papaya fibers. Setup B consists of bricks with 250 g of papaya fiber. The mixtures in each setup were mixed thoroughly and molded in a brick molder. Then the products were sun dried for one day.

RESULTS

Results show that the compressive strength of sample bricks without fiber has a mean of 1000 psi, while the sample bricks with papaya fiber has a mean 3000 psi.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the results of the investigation, sample bricks with papaya fiber has a higher compressive strength, as evidenced by a difference of 2000 psi when the two setups were compared.